The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) is set to host the prestigious Durand Cup for the third consecutive year, as confirmed by BTR Chief Pramod Boro on May 17. This acclaimed football tournament will take place in Kokrajhar from July 18 to August 23, 2025. The Durand Cup is the oldest football tournament in Asia and holds a significant place in the global football scene, marking its 134th edition this year.
Pramod Boro announced the news following a crucial meeting with Colonel Hari Thapa, Deputy Commander of the 107 Mountain Brigade, which was attended by senior Indian Army officials and BTR government representatives. They focused on finalizing preparations and confirming the tournament dates for the Kokrajhar leg.
The Durand Cup 2025 will be organized by the Indian Armed Forces in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), with full backing from the BTR government. A similar meeting had been conducted on May 13, where Assam Sports Minister Nandita Gorlosa engaged with military officers such as Major General Robin Bawa and Brigadier Akshay Kapur to discuss logistical arrangements for the event.
Kokrajhar’s Sports Authority of India (SAI) Stadium, which previously hosted matches in the last two editions, is once again expected to serve as a prominent venue. It is anticipated to host Group E matches and may feature a thrilling quarter-final, similar to last year’s event. Local fans are eagerly awaiting the high-quality football action returning to their town.
Adding excitement to the tournament is the participation of Bodoland FC, the local football team that has emerged as a source of pride for the region. Established in 2022, Bodoland FC made its debut in the Durand Cup in 2023, following up with another appearance in 2024. They captivated fans last year by securing a nail-biting 4-3 victory against the Border Security Force Football Team.
In preparation for the 2025 edition, Bodoland FC is conducting selection trials across all five BTR districts: Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Tamulpur, and Udalguri. The team is working to assemble a competitive squad and may include international players, as they did last year when six foreign players were part of their 28-member roster.
On May 16, just a day before the announcement, Boro highlighted the significance of the “Bodoland Model of Peace,” emphasizing that it allows every community within BTR to celebrate its unique culture and heritage. He also discussed the region’s initiatives focused on community welfare, including the Community Vision Document, the establishment of a Community Museum, and the creation of the Community Welfare Department, all aimed at fostering inclusive development for the diverse groups residing in BTR.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-durand-cup-2025-to-return-to-kokrajhar-btr-gears-up-for-another-grand-football-celebration-1215124-2025-05-17?utm_source=rssfeed
Category:
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-05-17 19:21:00
